AutoWeek Online Cam Story

Here’s
another engine problem: Media reports and online
complaints at www.v8sho.com document more than 200 cases
of camshaft failures in Ford Taurus SHO 3.4-liter V8
engines, but owners of the 1996-99 high-performance
models say they’re not getting anywhere in their
dispute with Ford Motor Co.

Website member Larry Eck says as many as 700 current
or former SHO owners log on, some complaining of repair
quotes as high as $21,000.

“Many of us, including myself, had a travesty
happen,” says owner Jim Merriman. The travesty for
Merriman: cam sprocket slippage, which disrupted valve
timing, causing valves to collide with pistons, causing
significant damage. Merriman said the damage resulted in
a $6,000 bill to rebuild one side of his Yamaha-made V8.
Of the nearly 20,000 third-generation SHOs made,
V8sho.com contributors believe between 5 and 10 percent
are cam sprocket failure victims.

Ford’s response, via press release: It’s aware of
the problem, but believes “the condition is not
widespread.” “Many” repairs are covered by
warranty; Ford has paid half the bill for some expired
warranty customers and works to lower repair costs in
cooperation with suppliers.